The Effects of High Dose Fish Oil Supplementation on Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness and Inflammatory Markers

Trial Information

The Effects of High Dose Fish Oil Supplementation on Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness and Inflammatory Markers

When a person exercises at a high intensity or starts a new exercise program, muscle
soreness will develop. Muscle soreness that peaks between 24-72 hours after exercise and
diminishes in 5-7 days is characterized as delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). DOMS is
associated with the eccentric phase of exercise, where the muscle is actively creating force
while lengthening. The onset of muscle soreness is part of an inflammatory response due to
the muscular damage caused by the exercise.

Research has shown that fish oils have anti-inflammatory properties. Direct intake of
various polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) alters the cell membrane fatty acid composition,
which, in turn modulates cell/tissue response to infection, injury and inflammatory events.
These properties may be beneficial to relieve muscle soreness.

Therefore, the purpose of this study is to determine the effects of fish oil supplementation
(Lovaza, GlaxoSmithKline, 3 grams per day for 65 days) on muscle strength, muscle soreness
and inflammation following exercise.

Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: Lovaza (3 grams/day) or
placebo. Participants will consume either the Lovaza or the placebo for 65 consecutive
days. On Day 60, participants will have baseline measurements of muscle strength, muscle
soreness, creatine kinase activity, and muscle inflammatory marker assessed. Participants
will then perform eccentric exercise on an isokinetic dynamometer using the quadriceps
muscles in order to induce muscle soreness. On each of Days 61-65, muscle strength, muscle
soreness, creatine kinase activity, and muscle inflammatory markers will again be assessed.